The book takes its title from the following poem by the American poet Paul Lawrence Dunbar (1872 - 1906).
TASK: Compare Dunbar's poem with Maya Angelou's poem. This poem is often referred to as "Caged Bird" to avoid confusion with the memoir of the same name.
"Sympathy" By Paul Dunbar I know what the caged bird feels, alas! I know why the caged bird beats his wing I know why the caged bird sings, ah me, |
"I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou A free bird leaps on the back of the wind But a bird that stalks down his narrow cage The caged bird sings with a fearful trill The free bird thinks of another breeze But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams The caged bird sings with a fearful trill |
Oodgeroo Noonuccal, also known as Kath Walker, was a poet, an actress, writer, teacher and artist and campaigner for Aboriginal rights. She was the first Aboriginal Australian to have a book of poetry published. her poetry speaks of hope and understanding and peace between black and white Australians.
SOURCE: ClickView (2008), Broadcast on ABC1, Rated G, Duration 5:12 mins.
"I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" was challenged by the Alabama State Textbook Committee in 1983. It was considered "dangerous" because it "preaches bitterness and hatred against whites.
WASLA Teacher Librarian of the Year- 2017: Jo-Anne Urquhart
- 2016: Lise Legg
WASLA Library Officer of the Year- 2012: Karen Notley